Before providing practical principles for overcoming fear, discussing the two types of fear outlined in Scripture is essential. The first type is “fear of the Lord.” This refers to a deep respect, reverence, and awe for God. It is about recognizing His power, justice, and mercy, leading to a life guided by His principles. The Bible names several benefits of fearing the Lord, including wisdom (Pro. 9:10), a longer and more content life (Pro. 10:27), and protection from hardships (Pro. 19:23).
The scriptures also discuss a “spirit of fear” (2 Tim. 1:7), which is not a positive attribute. Instead, it refers to an anxiousness and timidity not coming from God. This type of fear is paralyzing and debilitating. It is a common human experience when faced with dangerous situations. The question asked by those overwhelmed by anxiety is, “How do I overcome fear?”
Thankfully, God’s Word supplies a definitive answer for fear. John writes in his first epistle, “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear”(1 Jn 4:18). Perfect love is the antidote for fear, but how does an imperfect human, underlined by a sinful nature, manifest this kind of love? The Bible provides this answer, too. When we trust Jesus Christ, we are unified with God. We join in his perfect love by knowing and believing that God loves us. (1 Jn. 4:13-17)
In other words, how do we combat the “spirit of fear?” Through the “fear of the Lord.” How can a person overcome crippling anxiety? By putting their complete trust in the one who created the universe and everything in it but still knows and numbers every hair on their head. (Mt. 10:30)
So, does this mean that Christians will never experience fear? Of course not. We are citizens of a kingdom that has already been established but has yet to culminate. This means that sin still impacts us, and fear remains a factor. Does the Bible offer any practical steps to overcoming fear? Yes and no. Often, today’s readers approach the Bible in the same way one might pick up a self-help book. However, God’s Word was not written as a “how-to guide.” Instead, it aims to reveal who God is so we can know Him and Love Him–a fear of the Lord.
The Bible offers several encouragements for battling fear. The prophet Isaiah shares God’s words, “Do not fear, for I am with you… I will strengthen you… I will uphold you with My righteous right hand” (Is. 41:10). God is with us and wants to protect us, even when He is not apparent. The psalmist writes, “In God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me?” (Ps. 56;11) With God on our side, we have nothing. Job insists, “Though he slays me, I will hope in him” (Job 13:15). Here is a man who loved the Lord, yet everything was taken from him. Even when we feel we are doing everything right, we will still face trials. Job was afraid but placed his hope in God regardless of his situation.
When we encounter fear, we must first place our trust in God. Practically, this looks like loosening the grip of control. When we submit that control to the Lord, we transfer our trust from inward to upward. Submission is not a light switch but a process that requires long-term seeking after God. The psalmist writes, “I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears.” (Ps. 34:4)
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